Today marks the 40th anniversary of the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires.
The fires, which swept across Victoria and South Australia, were widespread and devastating. They remain one of the most significant emergency events in our nation's history.
As we reflect, our thoughts are with the families and friends of the 75 people who lost their lives.
We recognise the impact the fires had on entire communities, with 2600 homes and buildings destroyed, vast numbers of livestock lost, and the devastating environmental impact of 310,000 hectares burned.
We thank the thousands of firefighters, volunteers, emergency and ADF personnel who responded to the Ash Wednesday fires, and we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving to protect their communities.
Today will be difficult for all whose lives were impacted by the bushfires. We encourage people to seek the support needed, as we observe this anniversary.
